Fresh Green Beans With Country Ham
A hearty Southern side featuring tender green beans simmered with country ham seasoning, red pepper, sugar, and water for rich, savory flavors perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash green beans and break them into smaller pieces.
- Combine green beans, country ham seasoning, sugar, salt, pepper, water, and red pepper in a kettle.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or onion to the green beans while they simmer. If you don't have country ham seasoning, a mix of smoked paprika and diced bacon can work as a substitute. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. For a twist, add a splash of vinegar just before serving to brighten the dish, which pairs beautifully with Fried Pork Chops In Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These fresh green beans make an excellent side dish for any protein. Serve them alongside grilled chicken or pork recipes like Pork Chop And Rice Dinner for a complete meal. They also complement a light salad or can be tossed with roasted potatoes for a heartier plate. For a festive touch, garnish with chopped fresh herbs before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through. The flavors will continue to develop overnight.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Green Beans With Country Ham contains roughly 434 calories, with 10g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (194% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (74% of the Daily Value), and potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1789mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but adjust the cooking time as they may require less time to become tender. Start checking for doneness after about 30-40 minutes of simmering. Fresh beans, however, will provide a better texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers into the mix. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. You could also serve with a spicy hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a kick.
What can I serve alongside these green beans?
These green beans pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Consider serving them with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or even a hearty soup like Ham Vegetable Soup With Dumplings. A warm biscuit or cornbread would also complement the meal nicely.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).